Capture the Majestic Wildlife of Waterton Lakes
with Focus Photo Tours
Join professional photographer and tour leader Dee Webb for an unforgettable photography workshop set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. This immersive experience, based at a private lodge just 20 minutes from Waterton Lakes National Park, offers the perfect combination of expert instruction, hands-on learning, and creative exploration. Designed for photographers of all levels, this workshop provides in-depth guidance on capturing wildlife and landscapes while fostering a deeper connection to the natural world. Whether you're an experienced photographer refining your skills or a passionate beginner eager to learn, Dee's approach will help you elevate your craft in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Waterton lakes elk rut & wildlife
Dates: September 26-29, 2025
Location: waterton lakes, canada
Price: $2099 usd*
Fitness Level: level two - gentle adventure
Group Size: 6 participants + group leader, minimum 4 to go
*Price per person, based on double occupancy accommodations. Single supplement available for an additional fee, please inquire.
Tour Highlights:
With a herd of over 1,000 elk in the area, you’ll have unparalleled access to observe and capture stunning wildlife moments.
Beyond elk, the workshop will also highlight black bears preparing for winter, framed by the golden hues of autumn.
The striking landscapes of Waterton in the fall provide the perfect setting for breathtaking wildlife photography.
Throughout the workshop, Dee will provide real-time field instruction, ensuring you gain practical skills while shooting in various lighting conditions and wildlife scenarios. Each day includes photo review sessions, where you’ll receive valuable feedback to enhance your technique.
From unique angles to mastering lighting and composition, this workshop will help you create powerful, storytelling images.
After a full day of photography, enjoy the opportunity to unwind and recharge with optional restorative sessions designed to help you relax and refocus for the next day’s shoot. This time offers a chance to reflect on the day's work and absorb new insights in a comfortable and welcoming setting.
The annual elk rut presents a rare and dynamic opportunity to photograph these magnificent animals as they display their strength and engage in dramatic interactions. With a herd of over 1,000 elk in the area, you’ll have unparalleled access to observe and capture stunning wildlife moments. From unique angles to mastering lighting and composition, this workshop will help you create powerful, storytelling images.
Beyond elk, the workshop will also highlight black bears preparing for winter, framed by the golden hues of autumn. The striking landscapes of Waterton in the fall provide the perfect setting for breathtaking wildlife photography.
Throughout the workshop, Dee will provide real-time field instruction, ensuring you gain practical skills while shooting in various lighting conditions and wildlife scenarios. Each day includes photo review sessions, where you’ll receive valuable feedback to enhance your technique.
This workshop is more than just a photography tour—it’s an opportunity to refine your skills, connect with fellow photographers, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Under Dee Webb’s expert guidance, you’ll walk away with a portfolio of stunning images and a deeper understanding of wildlife photography.
Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today!
What’s Included:
All-inclusive accommodation
Transportation around Waterton Lakes
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
All water and soft drinks
Professional guide
Photography instruction/photo review
Tips/gratuities for local guides
What’s Not Included:
Personal items
Photography Gear
This tour begins and ends in Waterton Lakes. Please make travel arrangements based on the itinerary below, see “Getting to Waterton”, or Contact Us for travel assistance.
Getting to Waterton
By Air:
Fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC), which is the closest major airport, approximately a 3-hour drive from Waterton.
Rent your own vehicle
Dee will provide a group transfer option as needed * see below for details.
By Road:
From Calgary (3 hrs 15 min): Follow AB-2 South to Fort Macleod, then AB-3 West toward Pincher Creek, and finally AB-6 South into Waterton.
From the U.S. (Chief Mountain Border Crossing – Seasonal): Take U.S. 89 North to St. Mary, then cross into Canada via AB-6 North.
From Great Falls, Montana (3 hrs 30 min): Drive north on I-15, cross at Sweetgrass/Coutts, and follow AB-4, AB-2, and AB-6 to Waterton.
*Group Transfer Option: A shuttle from Calgary International Airport will be available for participants arriving on the morning of September 19th at 10:00 AM. Ensure your flight arrives in Calgary before this time if you plan to use this service.
All Images Property of Dee Webb
Daily itinerary
Day 1
Afternoon: Arrival at the Lodge (Plan on arriving by 2pm)
Settle into your private lodge, take in the stunning mountain views, and meet Dee and your fellow photographers.
4:00 PM: Evening Elk Photography Session
Head out for the first shoot, focusing on the powerful elk rut. Dee will provide on-location instruction on composition, settings, and techniques.
7:00 PM: Photo Review & Discussion
Gather at the lodge to review images from the evening, with constructive feedback from Dee.
8:00 PM: Evening Relaxation
Unwind after a full day, with an optional relaxation session to help you recharge.
Day 2
Pre-Dawn: Sunrise Photography Session
Capture the elk silhouetted against the soft morning light for dramatic and striking compositions.
9:00 AM: Black Bear Drive
Search for and photograph black bears preparing for winter amid the beautiful fall foliage.
10:30 AM: Breakfast & Image Review
Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and a session to analyze the morning’s photos.
11:30 AM: Instruction Workshop
Learn advanced wildlife photography techniques, including tracking movement and optimizing exposure settings.
1:00 PM: Lunch & Break
Enjoy a relaxing midday break at the lodge.
4:00 PM: Evening Elk Shoot
Another chance to capture the peak activity of the elk rut, applying new techniques learned throughout the day.
7:00 PM: Group Review & Discussion
Share and discuss images with the group, receiving tailored feedback from Dee.
8:00 PM: Evening Unwind
Optional relaxation session to help you wind down for the night.
Day 3
Pre-Dawn: Sunrise Photography Session
Take advantage of the golden morning light for another opportunity to capture stunning wildlife imagery.
8:30 AM: Exploring Waterton & Black Bear Photography
Continue photographing bears and enjoy some time to explore the charming town of Waterton.
10:30 AM: Breakfast & Group Image Review
Review your best shots from the morning and gain insights for refining your approach.
12:30 PM: Lunch & Relaxation
Enjoy downtime at the lodge to recharge.
1:30 PM: Post-Shoot Workshop
For those interested we will look through images and lear as we go. This will be tailored to the interests of the group.
4:00 PM: Final Evening Elk Photography Session
Apply everything you’ve learned in one last field session, capturing breathtaking images as the sun sets over the Rockies.
DAY 4
Depart Waterton Lakes
location & accommodations
Tour Leader: Dee Webb
Dee Webb is a passionate photography guide and adventurer with a deep love for nature and a commitment to protecting our planet for future generations. Originally from the wild and beautiful landscapes of Australia, Dee has spent her life exploring some of the world’s most stunning ecosystems, from growing up in Australia's outback to her current life split between the biodiverse rainforests of Costa Rica and beautiful and pristine Rocky Mountains.
With an adventurous spirit and an insatiable curiosity, Dee has turned her love of travel into a career that blends her artistic vision with her dedication to conservation. Her photography captures the beauty and fragility of the natural world, inspiring others to connect with nature and understand its importance.
Dee’s tours are more than just photography workshops—they’re immersive experiences that celebrate the wonder of wildlife and the joy of exploration. Whether trekking through rainforests, hiking mountain trails, or kayaking serene waters, Dee’s approach combines adventure with a deep respect for the environment.
Her philosophy is simple: Living my best life camera in hand. For Dee, every journey is an opportunity to learn, grow, and inspire others to cherish and protect our planet.
Join Dee on an unforgettable adventure where photography meets purpose, and let her help you capture the beauty of the world while creating memories that last a lifetime.